RV campgrounds near Wawona, California range in elevation from 2,000 to 5,000 feet, creating significant temperature variations throughout the year. Many sites close during winter months due to snow accumulation at higher elevations, particularly above 4,000 feet. Summer temperatures typically reach 85-95°F while spring and fall experience 30-40°F overnight temperature swings.
What to do
Swimming holes access: The Merced River offers several swimming spots within 45 minutes of Wawona area campgrounds. Railroad Flat Campground sits directly on the riverbank with "tons of pull outs to park for dayuse/swimming, we always find a nice beach/spot all to ourselves to swim even when busy," according to one visitor at Railroad Flat Campground.
Hiking trails: Multiple trails connect directly from campgrounds to longer routes. "There is a nice walk just beyond the campground that continues to follow the old rail road. Approx 2.5 miles is the confluence with the N Fork Merced River," notes a camper staying at Railroad Flat. Many trails feature spring wildflowers and fall color changes.
Pet-friendly activities: Several campgrounds accommodate pets with dedicated areas. Yosemite RV Resort offers "a large dog run which was amazing," as one camper mentioned at Yosemite RV Resort. Some campgrounds restrict pet access during certain hours or require leashes at all times.
What campers like
Riverside camping: Sites positioned along waterways provide natural cooling and ambient sounds. "The sites are nice and clean and range from very private to right next to each other. All are extremely close to the river so prepare for mosquitoes at night but the sounds of the river are amazing!" shares a visitor at Railroad Flat Campground.
Swimming amenities: Several RV parks offer pool access during warmer months. At Bass Lake at Yosemite RV Resort, a camper noted "We booked this last minute over the phone, we were very impressed with the spot, next to the pool, clubhouse, fire pit." Most pool facilities operate from May through September, weather permitting.
Wildlife viewing: The area supports diverse animal species. At McCabe Flat Campground, campers report "plenty of hiking and several swimming holes nearby" with opportunities to observe "wildflowers, newts, and river otters." Dawn and dusk provide optimal wildlife viewing times at most locations.
What you should know
Cell service limitations: Most campgrounds have unreliable connectivity. "AT&T service is poor and WiFi is sketchy except in the clubhouse and office areas," reports one camper at Bass Lake at Yosemite RV Resort. Verizon generally provides better coverage than other carriers throughout the region.
Road conditions: Access roads to several campgrounds include unpaved sections. At McCabe Flat Campground, campers note a "pretty bumpy drive in but not bad if you take it slow." Many secondary roads narrow considerably during final approaches.
Reservation requirements: Booking policies vary significantly by season and location. "It is First come first serve (after a reservation) so get there early," advises a camper at Thousand Trails Yosemite Lakes. Most campgrounds implement stricter reservation requirements from June through August.
Tips for camping with families
Entertainment options: Some campgrounds provide structured activities for younger visitors. Yosemite Pines RV Resort offers unique attractions as one camper describes: "With a pool, petting zoo, a corral where they have a fire and s'mores followed by a movie, this is a great place to camp with kids." Most organized activities run Thursday through Sunday.
Bathroom facilities: Cleanliness and accessibility vary widely. "The bathrooms are clean which is a great plus. There is a nice river (Fresno River)," notes a visitor at High Sierra RV Park, though another mentions that "the 'beach' is over grown and i wouldn't really even let my dog in the stagnant water."
Spacing considerations: Site proximity differs substantially between campgrounds. "The tent sites were right on top of each other and there was nowhere to park. You had to climb a steep hill to get to them with your car and again to the actual spot," cautions a camper at Yosemite Pines RV Resort & Family Lodging.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling: Many campgrounds have uneven parking surfaces. "Our spot was also very hard to try and level our trailer. We never did quite get it leveled the way we would've liked," reports one RVer at High Sierra RV Park. Bring leveling blocks as many sites require adjustments.
Size restrictions: Several access roads have width limitations. "I came with my 16' Airstream in tow, and it fit perfectly. I would not recommend anything larger," advises a camper at Railroad Flat Campground. Measure total vehicle length including tow connections before booking.
Hookup positioning: Utility connections may be inconveniently placed. "We backed in pretty deep to the site as not to run into our neighbor. My long shore cord had to be stretched to get to the power box," notes a visitor at Mammoth Mountain RV Park. Extension cords and longer hoses often prove essential.
